Thankful to be Alive and Well

There's a fairly new song out on country radio right now--it's a collaboration between Kenny Chesney and Dave Matthews called "I'm Alive." It's a pretty mellow song with an acoustic sound but it has a great message. One of my favorite lines is something like "I thank my lucky stars that I'm alive and well." I, of course, am thankful to God and not the stars :) for all of the blessings in my life. This holiday season really provides many opportunities to think about all the events of the year and be grateful for the wonderful challenges, successes and experiences placed in our paths. I have been enjoying time with family in celebration of the holidays--as well as many family members enjoying holiday-time birthdays. :)

It's been a super busy past few weeks in my life and unfortunately, my mileage has taken a hit. With lots of nights trying to sell Younkers Community Day coupons at a store in Omaha, along with some evening work commitments and a slight cold I've been doing lots of running around, though not necessarily for exercise.

I'm pleased to share that this week has been a GREAT running week. I've gotten in four great runs and today ran my longest run EVER! :) I mapped out a 15-ish mile course in West Des Moines, IA, where my in-laws live, and got up early this morning. It was a bit chilly for a while, which is what happens when it's not even 8 a.m. but by the end I was wishing for a t-shirt and shorts. I felt pretty strong overall, despite the lack of mileage the past few weeks. I wasn't running as fast as I would have liked-11-minute miles- but considering the odds, I was glad to be out there.

I ran 10 miles on an indoor track on Monday-yikes for the knees with all those circles-- and on both of these long runs, I have been experimenting with electrolyte gels. I had been really nervous about this, along with the mileage creeping up, as both of these are new territory in my runing. I experienced a fair amount of anxiety about this, but have done my best to relax and not be "in a wad" as I say :) and just listen to my body. For someone who likes to plan all the details, this is a growing point for me! I had no major aches and pains--just the usual that comes with running 10+ miles--and found that the gels were surprisingly not as horrible as I had imagined. I actually even LIKE the Power Bar Gel Double Latte. It tastes a lot like those Starbucks refrigerated frapuccino drinks you can buy at the grocery store.

I am also THRILLED to share that I have less than $550 to raise until I reach my fundraising goal! WOO HOO!

As I look back on this year and the many unhealthy habits that were part of my life, I am amazed at how far I have come along my journey. I would never have guessed that I would actually have committed to running a full marathon. I have made exercise and nutrition a more integral part of my life since June and I feel radically different inside and out. I am so thankful that I am healthy and have the physical abilities to attempt this feat. I am thankful for the opportunity to run for those who can't.

I hope this finds YOU alive and well...and I mean, REALLY living and well physically, emotionally and spiritually. And...keep on steppin'!

Miles run this week: 34